VIDEO: Mystic Aquarium releases ‘Cannoli’ the seal back into ocean after month-long rehabilitation

WESTERLY, R.I. (WFSB) - A gray seal named “Cannoli” was released back into the ocean on Wednesday morning after more than a month of rehabilitation at Mystic Aquarium.

“Mystic Aquarium is proud to give this seal a second chance at life,” said Sarah Callan, Animal Rescue Program Manager at Mystic Aquarium.

Mystic Aquarium responded to a report of an entangled young gray seal on Block Island on April 18th, according to a representative with the aquarium.

The seal named “Cannoli” was found with a severe wound. He was quickly transported to Mystic Aquarium for treatment with help from the Coast Guard, which assisted with transporting the seal from Block Island to the mainland to meet with the aquarium’s team.

Crews helped untangle the seal and he underwent a full physical examination.

Mystic Aquarium officials said the entanglement caused a significant deep tissue wound, requiring ongoing medical treatment and monitoring as part of his individualized rehabilitation plan.

Thankfully, “Cannoli” quickly began eating fish on his own and continued to show strong signs of improvement throughout rehabilitation, the aquarium said.

He steadily gained weight and was healthy enough to be able to return to his home.

“Cannoli” was released at Wuskenau Town Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island at 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

No further details were released.

If you encounter a stranded or injured marine animal, contact Mystic Aquarium’s 24-hour Animal Rescue hotline at 860-572-5955 ext. 107. Never attempt to touch or move the animal yourself.

Eyewitness News will provide more details as soon as they become available.